Which powerhouse coupe is the better overall option, the 2023 Ford Mustang or 2023 Dodge Challenger? Our comparison guide is here to give you the low-down on each of these iconic American sports cars.
Key Takeaways
- Choose the Challenger for more power; these muscle cars can give you up to 807 horses, compliments of the available supercharged V8.
- The lighter, quicker Mustang is the much more agile option, especially in a corner.
- Both coupes provide generous comfort. The Mustang has the smoother ride, and the Challenger has extra rear-seat legroom.
- For the better deal, choose the 2023 Mustang, which starts at $27,770. The 2023 Challenger’s MSRP is $31,965.
Pure Muscle: 2023 Dodge Challenger
If it’s horsepower you want, the Challenger certainly has what you crave. In fact, with its available supercharged V8, these muscle cars can provide up to 807 horses! Challenger powertrain options vary according to which trim model you select:
- STX, GT: 3.6L V6 (303 horsepower, 268 lb-ft)
- R/T: 5.7L V8 (372 hp, 400 lb-ft with automatic; 375 hp, 410 lb-ft with manual)
- R/T Scat Pack: 6.4L V8 (485 hp, 475 lb-ft)
- SRT Hellcat: Supercharged 6.2L V8 (717 hp, 656 lb-ft)
- SRT Hellcat Redeye: High-output supercharged 6.2L V8 (797 hp, 707 lb-ft; 807 hp with Jailbreak package)
- SRT Super Stock: High-output supercharged 6.2L V8 (807 hp, 707 lb-ft)
Although there’s no supercharged option, the Mustang still puts plenty of power at your command. There are two Mustang engines available, depending on whether you select one of the EcoBoost or one of the GT trim models:
- EcoBoost: turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine (310 horsepower, 350 lb-ft of torque)
- GT: 5.0L V8 (450 hp, 410 lb-ft)
On-Road Agility: 2023 Ford Mustang
With its quick acceleration and strong braking performance, the Mustang can’t help but boost your confidence. And these sports coupes also offer excellent feedback, with sharp steering that adjusts according to which drive mode you select. Ford’s pony car will also impress you with its stability and minimal body roll, helping you handle yourself well around a turn.The Challenger is just as much fun to drive. And it’s also a very strong option, with generous power and a strong braking performance of its own. However, because it’s so big and heavy, the Challenger doesn’t get up to speed quite as fast as the competition. On the other hand, it handles pretty well, especially considering its size. But it’s not as nimble as the Mustang, and that’s especially apparent in a tight turn.
Comfort & Convenience: It’s (Basically) a Tie!
In action, the Mustang actually delivers the more comfortable cruise. That’s thanks in part to an independent rear suspension, which helps the Mustang combine speed and agility with comfort and stability. The front seats are surprisingly spacious and supportive, delivering hours of on-road comfort. And the Mustang’s features lineup offers every imaginable upgrade, from heated seats to leather-trimmed upholstery.
If the Mustang feels more comfortable on the road, the Challenger offers greater backseat space. If the sport-tuned suspension feels more stiff than comfortable, though, the Challenger still supports you with nicely padded seats and a wealth of luxurious upgrades, not unlike the Mustang.
Price: 2023 Ford Mustang
You can save a significant amount of money by choosing the 2023 Mustang. Ford’s iconic pony car starts at just $27,770. The 2023 Challenger will eat up more of your savings, with an MSRP of $31,965.
Your New Sports Coupe
Sure, the 2023 Dodge Challenger delivers outstanding power. But the 2023 Ford Mustang as more of what you want in a daily driver. And, as the lighter model, it can even beat the Challenger in a drag race! Choose the Mustang for the best price on a quick, agile performance and a world-class cockpit.